The coast from Southend to Sheppey is an atmospheric landscape of big skies, historic forts and nature reserves. And the Thames Estuary Path makes it easy to walk an area that inspired painters, Dickens and Dr Feelgood

Cruising through the capital on a canal boat has given writer Helen Babbs a new perspective on London. Here she suggests some lesser-known places to visit along its navigable waterways, including a lost canal south of the river

Country walks take on a new lease of life if there’s a swim involved. These routes, included a new book, Wild Swimming Walks – South East, offer ample opportunity for a dip along the region’s rivers and coastlines